Teen Health Course 1

Introduction

Intense emotions can put a strain on the body’s systems. For example, worrying too much about a test at school can cause a headache or upset stomach. Understanding your emotions and knowing how to deal with stress can help you stay healthy. On the Web site below you will learn some of the symptoms of stress, and some practical ways to help your body.

Link to explore: BAM It’s Your Life

Directions

• Start at the BAM It’s Your Life Web site.
• Click on “Got Butterflies?” and “Feeling Frazzled” and then try the Stress-o-Meter. Take notes as you go.
• When you finish reading, answer the questions below.
• Finally, use what you learned to start a diary of emotions. Try to be aware of what you are feeling during the day. Keep a record of those feelings, what caused them, and how you responded for one week. When the week is over, look back on your entries. What did you learn about yourself and your emotions?

Questions

1			What is the fight or flight response, and why does the body react that way?
2			What are some of the common physical signs of short-term stress?
3			Name two signs of overload that can happen when stress becomes long-term.
4			What are five things you can do to deal with stress when you’re feeling frazzled?